Gratitude for another day.

When I had gone to a WORLD seminar in November, I did not know what quite to expect. I am a recovering heroin addict of 20 years whose life involved homelessness, domestic violence, and a lot of anger. In spite of the fact that I was living in a self-imposed prison, in my heart I knew that there was hope. It took a lot of acceptance to realize the core beliefs that I ruled my world by, but after some counseling and a path of Spirituality. I realized once I entered the rooms of where this particular seminar took place, that I was going to be enlightend to a whole new level. At first I felt totally out of my element, but I learned later that I was right were I needed to be. I have seen the dregs of drug abuse, and it doesn't neccessarily need to be intravenious to place anyone at risk for HIV or HEP C, it is more the awareness of the individual at the time of contraction, and the high risk situation. I have had a couple of friends who I have watched deteriorate into hoplessness, helplessness, and eventually death. I remember how my heart felt, and the determination and drive I acquired to do something, in some fashion to play a part to save lives, even if it is only one life I help save. I admit, I am new to this cause, and all I ask is for a chance to be enlightened and a door to be open so that I may be an active advocate. Even if it's to say, yes, I am hear, and I am listening.